Chronic ethanol consumption–induced hepatotoxicity and protective effect of Boswellia serrata

Background: Chronic alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for liver disease, which represents a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The present experimental model was evaluated with medicinal plant Boswellia serrata and the results reflected potential beneficial and reducing risk factors for liver disease. Aims and Objectives: To determine the hepatoprotective activity of aqueous extract of Boswellia serrata. Chronic ethanol consumption is a major risk factor in determining liver disease and other metabolic syndrome via multiple mechanisms, including the regulation of the lipid metabolism. Materials and Methods: Male Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups (n = 6/group), and fed with a standard diet, ethanol, and ethanol supplemented with extracts for 6 weeks. The ethanol changes were determined via a serum enzyme profile of the liver. Liver toxicity was assessed in terms such as, serum indirect bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, total proteins, albumin, globulin, albumin: globulin ratio, and liver weight. Results: Oral administration of 250 and 500 mg/kg of Aqueous extract of Boswellia serrata offered a significant (P o 0.01) dose-dependent protection against ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity. Conclusion: This study revealed that aqueous extract of Boswellia serrata in phytochemical constituents plays an active role against enzymes’ elevation and protection of liver.